The 2019 Detroit Auto Show hosted numerous exciting new vehicles. One of the most exciting models this year will be the 2020 Kia Telluride. It is the company’s largest SUV based on the Telluride concept from 2016. Whatsoever, this is Kia’s first model ever, specifically made for the U.S. markets. Telluride SUV will share the underpinnings with the Palisade model.
There will be room for eight passengers and interior isn’t that much impressive as on the concept. However, two-tone color options are available and comfort is great. From the outside, the 2020 Telluride comes with a bold and sporty design. Under the hood, this SUV offers a powerful 3.8-liter V6 engine.
Exterior Design – Concept vs Reality
The exterior design of the 2020 Kia Telluride will slightly depart from the concept. For the start, rectangular lights from the concept are replaced with vertical units. The shape and size are the same, but most of the exterior details are totally different. The front grille isn’t that much unique and it looks more like a regular Kia’s grille.
Moreover, grille does not host full chrome surroundings. Just to make it clear, front fascia looks modern and attractive. However, it isn’t unique and attractive as on the concept. Fog lamps are sitting into the bumper and the hood is slightly longer. To the sides, Telluride looks almost identical to the concept. Beltline is taller but it provides even sportier vibe. Speaking of sportiness, rear end is the real deal.
Tailgate is especially sporty and the taillights are looking very handsome. Interestingly, Telluride will become Kia’s largest SUV, even larger than the Sorento model. However, Telluride is categorized as the mid-size SUV. For example, Kia Telluride is 13 inches shorter than the Ford Expedition.
2020 Kia Telluride Interior Features
For the start, the interior of the 2020 Kia Telluride is nowhere near luxurious as the concept. The cabin is clearly toned-down. This may come as a disappointment for some customers. However, the cabin is still very modern and comfortable. The design is clean and the layout is perfect.
We could say the 2020 Telluride is almost a premium SUV. It hosts some fancy shapes, wood trims, and optional leather upholstery. The two-tone layout is available as well and the combination of darker trims with chrome is looking perfect. Heated and ventilated seats for the first two rows are optional.
On the other hand, the leather steering wheel comes as standard. A 10.25-inch display is optional too, along with the 630-watt 10-speaker Harman-Kardon audio system. There will be room for eight passengers across the three rows of seats.
Powerful V6 Engine
The 2020 Kia Telluride will offer only one engine choice and it is a 3.8-liter V6. It is the engine from the Lambda II group and it is the same unit as in the Hyundai Palisade. The output is rated at 291 horses and 262 lb-ft of torque. The 8-speed automatic transmission is available.
With those numbers, Telluride will offer more power than the rest of Kia’s lineup of SUV. On top of that, Telluride will be more powerful than the rest of the competition. Honda Pilot delivers 280 hp and VW Atlas 276. All-wheel-drive setup is optional and this mid-size SUV can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
2020 Kia Telluride Price and Release Date
The base model of the 2020 Kia Telluride starts at $33,000. That price is slightly higher than the Honda Pilot’s price but lower than the price of the current VW Atlas. There will be four trim levels and the range-topping SX model is priced at $43,000. Also, Telluride SUV will offer numerous special and optional packages. This SUV will hit the dealerships in the United States in the second half of 2019.